Our commitment to promoting equity, inclusion, and diversity in naturopathic medicine (Cloe Franko)

June is both PRIDE month and Indigenous History month in Canada. These are often seen as opportunities for celebration and reflection on Canada’s diversity. Unfortunately, events in the last two weeks -- from the discovery of the remains of 215 Indigenous children at Kamloops residential school in British Columbia to the anti-Muslim-fueled terrorist attack on a family in London, Ontario to homophobic violence in Toronto -- have also brought painful reminders of the deeply rooted racism and hatred in our communities.

The oppression of and violence against Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour, LGBTQ2SIA+, women, and disabled people is not relegated to history nor to the streets -- these communities also face marginalization and oppression within the healthcare system. We, as soon-to-be naturopathic doctors, intend to be part of a wave of medical practitioners who are working to dismantle the racial, social, economic, and physical barriers to adequate, appropriate, and affirming medical care. 

A group of CCNM Toronto campus students have drafted a revised Naturopathic Doctor’s Oath that reflects these commitments. Our class was the first to reflect upon it as part of our orientation to clinic in May. 

No matter your faith, abilities, race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, and socioeconomic status, we welcome you to work with us toward your unique health goals. We do not pretend to be experts in your identity or experience. Instead, we commit to working with you as an individual, considering your unique experience in the world and its impact on your health, and asking questions without judgement.

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